Accessories
Build plates, nozzles, filament dryers and more.
3D Printer Enclosures and Air Filters: What They Do and Cost
When an enclosure makes sense for an open 3D printer, which variants exist and what HEPA and activated carbon filters can do.
3D printer nozzles: choosing the right material and size
Brass, hardened steel or tungsten carbide? 0.2 or 0.6 mm? Which nozzle suits what, what high-flow means and how to change the nozzle safely.
Build plates compared: smooth PEI, textured PEI and glass
Which build plate suits which material? Types, adhesion, release agents, underside finish, care, lifespan and what to look for when buying.
Buying a filament dryer: what really matters
Dry box, food dehydrator or multi-colour system with heating? The types of device and buying criteria from temperature to noise, with typical price ranges.
Gluing 3D prints: which glue for PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA and TPU?
Super glue, two-part epoxy, acetone or flexible adhesive: what holds on which filament, how to prepare the surfaces and what to bear in mind for safety.
Melting in threaded inserts: a guide for 3D printing
How to melt in threaded inserts correctly: types, hole diameter, soldering iron temperature, wall thickness and a step-by-step guide.
Post-processing 3D prints: sanding, filling, painting
Step by step from layer lines to a smooth, painted surface. With grit sizes, gluing, smoothing and a table by material.
Tools for 3D Printing: the Basic Kit for Beginners
What usually comes with the printer, which extra tools you need, what they are for and roughly what they cost. Plus: useful extras for later.
Vacuum forming with 3D-printed moulds: sheet, master, process
Which filament the master withstands, draft angles, vent holes, which sheet suits casting moulds and packaging, and common vacuum forming mistakes.